Question 1

Which of the following best describes the 'Deviation from Normality' criterion for determining abnormality?

Accepted Answer

It focuses on whether a person's behavior is statistically rare or unusual compared to the general population.

Question 2

A psychologist is assessing a patient using the DSM axes. Which axis would include information about the patient's physical health?

Accepted Answer

Axis III

Question 3

Which of the following is a key difference between generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder?

Accepted Answer

GAD involves persistent, excessive worry about many aspects of life, while panic disorder is characterized by sudden, intense episodes of fear.

Question 4

A patient with dissociative amnesia is most likely to:

Accepted Answer

Escape from problems by blocking them out completely, forgetting specific identity/personal life details.

Question 5

Which of the following best illustrates the concept of 'multiple personality disorder' (now called dissociative identity disorder)?

Accepted Answer

A person alternates between distinct identities, each with its own behaviors and memories.

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Persistent, excessive worry about daily life events.

Question 7

A person who is unable to adjust to new situations and maintain relationships is most likely experiencing abnormality according to which criterion?

Accepted Answer

Adjustment

Question 8

Which of the following disorders is characterized by alternating periods of mania and depression?

Accepted Answer

Bipolar disorder

Question 9

A person with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is most likely to:

Accepted Answer

Experience unwanted, repetitive thoughts and perform ritualistic behaviors to reduce anxiety.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the difference between a phobia and generalized anxiety disorder?

Accepted Answer

A phobia is an intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation, while GAD involves excessive anxiety about many aspects of life.

Question 11

Which of the following is an example of a somatoform disorder?

Accepted Answer

Conversion disorder, where psychological stress causes physical symptoms.

Question 12

A person who experiences flashbacks and severe anxiety after a traumatic event is most likely suffering from:

Accepted Answer

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Question 13

Which of the following is a common misconception about the causes of schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

It is solely caused by poor parenting and family environment.

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'tolerance' in addiction?

Accepted Answer

Needing increasing amounts of a substance to achieve the same effect.

Question 15

A person who believes they are being watched or followed by government agents, despite evidence to the contrary, is experiencing which symptom?

Accepted Answer

Delusion

Question 16

Which of the following is a key feature of antisocial personality disorder?

Accepted Answer

Disregard for the rights of others and lack of remorse for harmful actions.

Question 17

According to the diathesis-stress hypothesis, which equation best represents the development of psychological disorders?

Accepted Answer

$	ext{Disorder} = 	ext{Genetic Vulnerability} + 	ext{Environmental Stress}$

Question 18

Which of the following is most likely to be classified as a mood disorder?

Accepted Answer

Major depressive disorder

Question 19

A person who experiences withdrawal symptoms after stopping drug use is demonstrating which concept?

Accepted Answer

Physical dependence

Question 20

Which of the following best explains the difference between nature and nurture in the development of psychological disorders?

Accepted Answer

Nature refers to genetic and biological factors, while nurture refers to environmental and social influences.

Study Guide: Psychological Disorders and Abnormal Psychology

Study Guide - Practice Questions